Rep. Mike Dovilla Urges Public to Speak Out Against Unfair E-Check Burden

COLUMBUS – State Representative Mike Dovilla (R-Berea) is calling on residents of Northeast Ohio to take part in a newly opened public comment period on a proposed reform that could bring long-overdue relief from the region’s decades-long burden under Ohio’s E-Check program.

“For over thirty years, families and small businesses in our region have endured an expensive and inefficient mandate that much of the rest of Ohio does not have to deal with,” said Rep. Dovilla. “Northeast Ohioans have every reason to be frustrated. This is our opportunity to speak up.”

Thanks to a provision in the recently enacted state transportation budget—the E-Check Ease Act—drivers may soon have a new option. The proposed change to the State Implementation Plan (SIP) would allow vehicle owners to satisfy emissions requirements through an alternative certification, offering relief from the traditional testing process.

The Ohio EPA is accepting public comments on this proposal through June 2, 2025. Comments may be submitted via email to DAPC-Comments@epa.ohio.gov.

“I strongly encourage constituents to weigh in,” added Rep. Dovilla. “If you’ve ever waited in line at a testing center, paid for unnecessary repairs, or wondered why your zip code still falls under this outdated mandate—make your voice heard.”

Once the comment period concludes, the Ohio EPA will review all public feedback and respond before forwarding the proposed revision to the U.S. EPA for final approval.

For more information or assistance submitting a comment, constituents may contact Rep. Dovilla’s office at Rep17@OhioHouse.gov or 614-466-4895.